Tallinn to Helsinki ferry - Times and cheap Tallink Silja Line ferry tickets

Tallinn to Helsinki by Ferry

Introduction

When I realized how close Tallinn and Helsinki are by sea, I couldn’t pass up the chance to cross the Gulf of Finland by ferry. The Tallink ferry runs frequently, and it felt like the perfect mix of convenience, comfort, and a bit of sea adventure. If you're wondering what the journey is like or how to plan it, here’s everything you need to know from my experience.

Route Overview

The ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki takes two hours and runs every three hours throughout the day. I paid €35 for my one-way ticket and traveled with Tallink. It’s a straightforward and scenic journey, especially if the weather cooperates. Compared to flying, the ferry gives you more freedom to move around, stretch your legs, and even grab a bite while cruising past coastal views.

Transportation Experience

Booking my Tallinn to Helsinki ferry ticket online was simple. After payment, I received a QR code to scan at the terminal gate. Entry is flexible, and once you're through the gate, you’re free to choose any seat or area on board. I recommend arriving 30–45 minutes before departure to get through the terminal and find a good spot on the ship.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

The ferry departs from Tallin’s Terminal D, which is just a short walk from the Old Town. That means you can grab a coffee or squeeze in a last bit of sightseeing before heading off. Once I boarded, I noticed how massive the ferry was. Multiple decks, indoor lounges, and even outdoor areas to sit and take in the sea breeze.

The best part came toward the end of the trip. There were beautiful views of Finnish islands as we approached Helsinki, especially on the right side of the ferry. The ferry arrives at the West Terminal 2 in Helsinki.

Schedule & Frequency

Tallink operates six daily sailings from Tallinn and Helsinki, departing roughly every three hours throughout the day. I took the ferry at 10:30.

• 07:30 → 09:30
• 10:30 → 12:30
• 13:30 → 15:30
• 16:30 → 18:30
• 19:30 → 21:30
• 22:30 → 00:30

Onboard Experience & Services

I boarded around 11:30 and found a comfortable spot on the top deck. Seats are first come, first served, but there’s plenty of space both indoors and outside. A lot of passengers sat out on the open deck enjoying the sun and fresh sea air. I grabbed a coffee from the onboard Burger King and settled in to watch the coastline fade behind us.

The ship had clean facilities, good seating, and food options from snacks to full meals. It was quite expensive, though, so I brought my own food on the ferry.

On Tallink ferries between Tallinn and Helsinki, passengers can bring luggage for free as long as they can carry it themselves. There are no formal baggage checks, but large luggage should be stowed in the racks available on the lower decks.

For travel between Estonia and Finland, both Schengen countries, passport or ID checks are rare but still possible. EU or EEA citizens can travel using their national ID or passport, while other nationalities should carry their passports and any necessary visas, just in case.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

Tickets for the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki start at around €35, but prices can rise on weekends or holidays. I recommend booking in advance, especially during summer. Entry gives you access to all public areas. There are no reserved seats, so board early if you want a good spot.

Estimated costs:

• Ferry ticket: €35
• Coffee on board: €3
• Total: €38

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

• Sit on the right side for the best views of Finnish islands as you approach Helsinki.
• Arrive early to grab a comfortable indoor seat or a prime outdoor spot.
• Bring a windproof jacket if you want to sit outside, as it gets chilly, even in the summer.
• Download the QR code ticket on your phone to speed up boarding.
• Don’t expect much from the terminals; they're functional, not fancy.

Conclusion

This ferry ride between Tallinn and Helsinki is a peaceful and scenic way to move between the two capitals. With great sea views, open-air seating, and onboard amenities, it makes for a pleasant crossing. If you're visiting for part of a longer Baltic trip or even a spontaneous day adventure, I’d absolutely recommend taking the ferry.

About the Author: Luke Patrick Hoogmoed

• Job Title: Solo Traveler and Europe Expert

• Bio: Solo traveler and Instagram content creator from the Netherlands with a passion for train travel and Eastern Europe.